Susan's Crispy Caramel Corn

This classic caramel corn recipe is a family treasure, sparking smiles and stories around the table. Its irresistible sweetness and satisfying crunch make it a centerpiece for holiday celebrations, cozy evenings, and shared laughter. Whether it’s a nostalgic treat from childhood or a new tradition with your kids, this caramel corn brings everyone together.

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American

Keyword Air-Popped Popcorn, caramel corn, crispy caramel corn, family friendly snack

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1

Servings bowls (1 cup)

Calories 1045kcal

Author Susan Rasmussen

Equipment

1 Hot Air Popcorn Popper

Ingredients

6 quarts popped popcorn (approx. 24 cups, air-popped recommended)
2 cups brown sugar
1 cup butter (or margarine)
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 200°F to ensure it’s ready for baking the caramel corn.
Pop 6 quarts of popcorn using an air popper for a light, fluffy base. Place the popped popcorn in a very large mixing bowl, ensuring there’s enough room to stir later. Remove any unpopped kernels to avoid hard bites.
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups brown sugar, 1 cup butter, ½ cup white corn syrup, and 1 tsp salt. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, let it cook for 5 minutes without stirring too much to prevent a grainy texture. Avoid scraping the sides of the pan.
Remove the saucepan from heat. Add 1 tsp baking soda and stir quickly until fully mixed. The mixture will foam slightly, creating a lighter caramel coating.
Pour the hot caramel syrup over the popped popcorn in the large bowl. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently stir, ensuring all popcorn is evenly coated with the caramel. Work quickly but carefully to avoid burning yourself with the hot syrup.
Spread the caramel-coated popcorn evenly onto two large baking sheets or a deep baking dish. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent clumping and ensure even coating.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Break apart any large clusters and serve in bowls or as a grab-and-go snack. Enjoy the sweet crunch with family and friends, making every moment a cherished memory.

Notes

Kid-Friendly Tips

Make It Fun: Let kids help stir the caramel popcorn in-between baking for a hands-on family activity.
Small Portions: Serve in colorful cups to make it feel like a special treat.
No Hard Bits: Check for unpopped kernels to keep it safe for younger kids.
Sweet Delight: The caramel’s rich sweetness appeals to kids of all ages.

Additional Information

Prep Tips: Pop popcorn ahead of time to save prep time. Use non-stick baking sheets for easy cleanup.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer for up to 3 months.
Serving Day: Serve straight from the oven for warm, crispy texture, or let cool completely for a crunchier snack.

Nutrition